Clearly, these two collections could not be any more different. While Thom Browne offers an over-the-top collection that subconsciously makes you look forward to Halloween, Narciso Rodriguez also goes over the top - but in a completely different, more minimalistic direction.
The color schemes are surprisingly similar, in fact, black and white are still the dominant colors in most collections for next Spring. The cuts, the details and the styling, however, make for a specific designer's handwriting and distinguish collections from each other. Even though both collections don't offer innovative cuts, textures or materials - it has all been done before - both design houses still manage to engage the viewer with either an utter abundance or complete lack of styling. While Narciso Rodriguez has a futuristic outlook and not much styling to distract from clear shapes and sharp edginess, Thom Browne goes back in time and adds a lot of drama with details over accessories over crazy hair and smeared make up.
Being able to see two collections this different in style, outlook and personality in one season in the same city (New York Fashion Week), is really a luxury of our time. Nowadays, there isn't one mainstream trend that is seen in all collections. No, designers give us the choice: Women can choose who they want to be and what they want to dress like - no matter if like a crazy, over-the-top or minimalistic and sharp.
